Massachusetts § 52 - Penalties

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 52 — Penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 52. Penalties

Section 52. Any person who willfully makes a false or fraudulent statement in or relating to an application for membership or for the purpose of obtaining money from or a benefit in any society, shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred nor more than five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

Any person who willfully makes a false or fraudulent statement in any verified report or declaration under oath required or authorized by this chapter, or of any material fact or thing contained in a sworn statement concerning the death or disability of a member for the purpose of procuring payment of a benefit named in the certificate, shall be guilty of perjury and shall be subject to the penalties therefor prescribed by law.

Any person who solicits membership for, or in any manner assists in procuring membership in, any society not licensed to do business in this state shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty nor more than two hundred dollars.

Any person guilty of a willful violation of, or neglect or refusal to comply with, the provisions of this chapter for which a penalty is not otherwise prescribed, shall be punished by a fine of not more than two hundred dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 52

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 52 cover?

Section 52 ("Penalties") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 52?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 52" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 52 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.